Anthony Olubunmi George: The Guardian
Anthony Olubunmi George, 63, a Nigerian national who has lived in the UK since 1986, has successfully won his appeal against deportation. George suffers from speech and mobility impairments after suffering two strokes in 2019. He has no criminal convictions, The Guardian reports.
George arrived in the UK at age 24 and has remained ever since. Over the years he has experienced homelessness on multiple occasions, relying on friends for shelter. He also says he has lost touch with any close family members in Nigeria.
His attempts to regularise his immigration status were repeatedly rejected by the Home Office. One complication stemmed from his previous legal representation, which submitted a forged passport entry stamp in 2005. George says he was unaware of this falsified stamp until many years later. That solicitor has since been struck off and reported to the authorities.
A judge in the immigration tribunal who ruled in George’s favour noted the severe consequences of his uncertain status. In particular, George avoided doctor’s visits and medical supervision because of fears linked to his immigration situation. After the strokes in 2019, his health deteriorated, and the judge emphasised that George had also spent periods in destitution.
George expressed immense relief at the decision. He said that being granted the right to stay has renewed his hope for the future.
His lawyer, Naga Kandiah of MTC Solicitors, argued that the case highlighted not only policy issues within the Home Office but also serious failings on the part of George’s previous legal representatives.
